Daniel 11 is the longest prophecy in the book of Daniel, a detailed account of conflicts between kings of the north and south that the angel reveals to Daniel. These questions are for small groups, Sunday school classes, and personal study. Each set can be used on its own, and the answers give a leader enough to guide a discussion without a separate commentary.
Daniel 11 at a Glance
The chapter opens with a message to Daniel about Persia and Greece, then moves through a long series of rulers from the north and south who fight over territory and power. The passage shifts in verses 21 through 35 to a contemptible ruler who deceives and persecutes the faithful, and then into verses 36 through 45 to a king who exalts himself above every god.
Many readers see the chapter as history recorded in advance, with verses 1 through 35 tracing events that have already happened and verses 36 through 45 pointing to a final stage. Whatever view your group holds, the questions below keep the focus on what the text says and how God’s people are called to respond while the powers rise and fall.
Observation Questions
Use these questions first to help the group see the text clearly before offering interpretations. Ask members to find the answers in the verses themselves and read each passage aloud before discussing it.
Daniel 11:2
“Now will I show you the truth. Behold, three more kings will stand up in Persia; and the fourth will be far richer than all of them. When he has grown strong through his riches, he will stir up all against the realm of Greece.
(WEB)
This verse introduces the chapter’s movement of rising kings and the coming conflict with Greece. Reading it first helps the group see that the chapter begins with a clear statement of what the angel is about to reveal.
Daniel 11:27
As for both these kings, their hearts will be to do mischief, and they will speak lies at one table; but it won’t prosper, for the end will still be at the appointed time.
(WEB)
Here the chapter names the deceit of rival rulers and then anchors the whole scene in God’s appointed timing. Reading it aloud reminds the group that the outcome is not left to human schemes.
Daniel 11:32
He will corrupt those who do wickedly against the covenant by flatteries; but the people who know their God will be strong, and take action.
(WEB)
This verse sets the faithful who know their God against those corrupted by flattery. It is a good passage for prompting discussion about what strength looks like in a time of pressure.
Daniel 11:35
Some of those who are wise will fall, to refine them, and to purify, and to make them white, even to the time of the end; because it is yet for the time appointed.
(WEB)
The verse speaks of refining and purifying through hardship and ties that purpose to the appointed time. Reading it helps the group talk honestly about why faithful people sometimes suffer.
Daniel 11:36-37
36 “The king will do according to his will. He will exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and will speak marvelous things against the God of gods. He will prosper until the indignation is accomplished; for that which is determined will be done. 37 He won’t regard the gods of his fathers, or the desire of women, or regard any god; for he will magnify himself above all.
(WEB)
These verses describe a ruler who exalts himself above every god and speaks against the God of gods. Reading them together sharpens the contrast between human pride and the sovereignty of God that runs through the chapter.
Memory Verse for Daniel 11
A Closing Prayer for the Group
Father, we thank you that you rule over every kingdom and that nothing in history escapes your hand. When we see powerful people speak lies and pursue their own will, help us to remember that your appointed time is still in charge. Give us courage to know you well and to act faithfully in the places where we live and work. Where we feel pressure to bend or compromise, strengthen us to stand firm. Be near to anyone in this group who is walking through a refining season, and remind them that you are with them. Keep our hearts fixed on you, the one true God who holds the times. Amen.
